Brief
Bollywood actor Imran Khan files High Court petition to overturn Leave India notice
The 44‑year‑old filed a writ petition alleging the notice violates his constitutional rights and OCI registration.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Bollywood actor Imran Khan, a 44‑year‑old US citizen who holds Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) status, filed a writ petition on Saturday in the Bombay High Court challenging a "Leave India" notice issued by the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) on October 14.
What happened
The FRRO notice ordered Khan to depart India by October 28 after he was allegedly present at a protest near Mumbai’s August Kranti Maidan on October 10, which targeted Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Khan says he was merely returning to his car when he was apprehended, and that no security report was attached to the notice.
What the reports add
According to the petition, the FRRO cited Sections 7(2)(c) and 29 of the Immigration and Foreigners Act (IFA), 2025, but did not provide any adverse security assessment. The actor also received a separate show‑cause notice asking why his OCI registration should not be cancelled under Section 7D(e) of the Citizenship Act, 1955, which permits cancellation on grounds such as national security.
What was said
Khan described the notice as “non‑bonafide” and an “unconstitutional, high‑handed and grossly disproportionate abuse of power,” the petition states. He argued that the IFA cannot be used to punish a public figure simply for being near a protest site or expressing concern about movement restrictions.
How it came about
The notice follows Khan’s participation in the October 10 demonstration, which demanded the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Earlier Felo coverage reported the issuance of the notice on October 15, noting political criticism that Khan had misused his OCI status. Khan’s petition seeks an immediate stay on the notice while the court considers his case.
Key facts
- Imran Khan filed a writ petition in Bombay High Court on October 18 challenging a Leave India notice. (gulfnews.com)
- The FRRO issued the notice on October 14 after Khan was present at a protest on October 10. (gulfnews.com)
- Khan argues the notice violates his OCI rights and Article 21 of the Indian Constitution. (gulfnews.com)
- A show‑cause notice was also issued asking why his OCI registration should not be cancelled. (gulfnews.com)
Sources
- [1] gulfnews.com — originally reported as “Imran Khan Challenges 'Leave India' Notice, Cites OCI Status and Constitutional Rights”
